What is a static character?
A character who does not undergo significant change or growth throughout the course of a story.
Stuck in their ways: The Static Character in Fiction
Ah, the static character. They're like an old uncle who refuses to try sushi. Despite the passing of time and experiences, they just won't budge from their ways.
In fiction, static characters are those who remain largely unchanged throughout the course of a story. They don't experience significant growth or transformation, and their character traits and behaviors essentially stay the same from beginning to end.
While it may seem counterintuitive to create a character who doesn't change, static characters can serve an important purpose in a story. For example, they can provide a point of stability or contrast for other characters who do undergo transformation. Alternatively, they can highlight the theme of a story by embodying a particular trait or idea in a consistent way.
When crafting a static character, it's important to consider how they fit into the overall story and what purpose they serve. While they may not have a traditional character arc, they can still be rich and interesting if developed with care.
Explore the use of the static character in these two literary examples:
Atticus Finch is a prime example of a static character in literature. His integrity and values remain unwavering throughout the novel, cementing him as a moral anchor amidst the racism and injustice of the setting.
Daisy Buchanan is another example of a static character, with her selfish and flippant attitude remaining unchanged even as those around her are caught up in the whirlwind of Jay Gatsby's doomed pursuit of her.